Singer-songwriter fans will want to head to The Loft at UC San Diego on May 7 for a show celebrating both the release of Elise Trouw’s debut album, “Unraveling,” as well as her 18th birthday. Trouw is a gifted multi-instrumentalist who has crafted a compelling modern indie pop album, featuring confessional tales set to radio-friendly tunes, such as the opening single, “Burn.” Meanwhile, opening the night will be Tolan Shaw, who recently won the “Best Singer / Songwriter” category at the 2017 San Diego Music Awards. It’s a terrific bill, with two young artists, both on the cusp of national stardom. This concert showcases just how strong the talent pool is in San Diego.
Elise Trouw and Tolan Shaw: Sunday, May 7 at The Loft, UCSD campus. 6 p.m. theloft.ucsd.edu. As much fun as it is for audiences to watch a band perform, it’s even more enjoyable for those onstage. On May 4, the 710 Beach Club will give local singers a chance to make their rock ’n’ roll dreams come true, with a special edition of “Live Band Karaoke.” With hundreds of songs to choose from and an enthusiastic crowd cheering you on, this is a great way to spend an evening. While many who participate are quite good, no actual talent is required, just a sense of humor willingness to take the spotlight for a few moments and a good sense of humor. Live Band Karaoke: Thursday, May 4 at the 710 Beach Club, 710 Garnet Ave. 9 p.m. 21 and up. www.710bc.com. San Diego jazz fans have a wonderful opportunity to see the next generation of emerging talent at a special show May 10 at Dizzy’s, featuring percussionist Charlie Chavez y su AfroTruko teaming up with the Mission Bay High School’s acclaimed Mambo Orchestra, under the direction of JP Balmat. Mixing established music veterans with rising young performers is a great way to inspire musicians at both ends of the spectrum, a win-win situation for both the onstage talent and audiences alike. The night will be an explosion of rhythm, with Latin jazz and salsa as the focus, sure to inspire dancing in the aisles. Charlie Chavez and the MBHS Mambo Orchestra: Wednesday, May 10 at Dizzy’s at Arias Hall, 1717 Morena Blvd. 8 p.m. $15. www.dizzysjazz.com.
Despite not releasing new music since 1993, Billy Joel continues to be one of the hottest acts on the planet, playing a show at Dodger Stadium on May 13. Fans who don’t want to make the trek to Los Angeles, or want to get a little preview of the show, will want to head to Humphrey’s Backstage Live on May 10 for a set from tribute band, 52nd Street. The band turns out worthy versions of everything from “My Life” to “You May Be Right,” providing a hit-filled night for anyone who enjoys Joel’s music. 52nd Street: Wednesday, May 10 at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Drive. 7 p.m. $5. humphreysbackstagelive.com. One of the hottest talents in town, Ariel Levine, performs a two-night stand, in two guises, at Beaumont’s on May 11 and May 12. A classy mix of David Byrne, Bowie and Sinatra cool, on May 11, Levine will perform a solo acoustic set, featuring a mix of top-notch originals and choice covers. On May 12 he will perform an all-covers set with his band, The Moonage Daydreamers.
Ariel Levine / Modern Day Moonshine: Thursday and Friday, May 11-12 at Beaumont’s, 5662 La Jolla Blvd. 7:30 p.m. 21 and up. www.beaumontseatery.com. Whether you catch him in solo or band format, you’ll be impressed by Levine’s talent as both a singer and guitarist with stage charisma to spare.
Ariel Levine / Modern Day Moonshine: Thursday and Friday, May 11-12 at Beaumont’s, 5662 La Jolla Blvd. 7:30 p.m. 21 and up. www.beaumontseatery.com. The Backyard Kitchen & Tap expands their musical offerings this month with full bands now added to the mix, alongside solo performers. On May 12, the venue will host reggae quartet Synrgy for a night of island sounds. The band has been touring extensively, with a host of classic genre covers by the likes of Bob Marley, but also with plenty of solid originals that stand up well against the hits. This set is in advance of a string of West Coast dates through the end of May as Synrgy ramps up towards the summer festival circuit.
Synrgy: Friday May 12 at the Backyard Kitchen & Tap, 832 Garnet Ave. 7:30 p.m. No cover. www.backyardpb.com The music biz is undeniably tough, so how does a band manage to last more than 35 years as one of the area’s top club draws? Local institution The Siers Brothers did it the old fashioned way, by building a set of nothing but crowd pleasers. Performing at Tio Leo’s on May 12, The Siers Brothers have been performing since the 1980s, amassing a repertoire that has crowds continually coming back for more. A veritable musical jukebox, the band excels at tracks by everyone from the Jacksons to the Romantics, offering up something for just about every music fan. The Siers Brothers: Friday, May 12 at Tio Leo’s, 5302 Napa St. 9 p.m. 21 and up. Cover TBD. www.tioleos.com.